Adani-Hindenburg Case Verdict: The Supreme Court delivered its judgment today on numerous petitions seeking an investigation into accusations of accounting fraud and stock manipulation against Adani group companies. These allegations were outlined in a research report by US short-seller Hindenburg Research in January 2023.
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud pronounced the verdict, underscoring the court’s inability to interfere in regulatory affairs. The court asserted that the Adani-Hindenburg Case report cannot serve as the basis for a separate investigation. Instead, it directed the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to proceed with its inquiry in accordance with the law.
Key Highlights of the Adani-Hindenburg Case:
Hindenburg Research‘s report, unveiled in January 2023, made claims of “brazen accounting fraud” and “stock manipulation” by the Gautam Adani-led group.
Despite Adani dismissing the report as “unresearched” and “maliciously mischievous,” it triggered a substantial decline in Adani group stocks, resulting in a loss of over $140 billion within days and the cancellation of a ₹20,000 crore share sale.
In March, the Supreme Court constituted a six-member panel, led by retired Supreme Court judge AM Sapre, to investigate regulatory lapses by SEBI and alleged violations of laws by the Adani group. The committee’s report, submitted two months later, stated that the allegations of stock price manipulation or MPS norms violation by Adani group companies could not be substantiated “at this stage.”
Concurrently, the panel raised concerns regarding the existing Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPI) regulations.
In November, the Supreme Court expressed that, lacking evidence of lapses on SEBI’s part, which is already probing the matter, it would be inappropriate for the court to appoint a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to scrutinize alleged violations of MPS norms by Adani group companies.
In a thrilling update for motorcycle enthusiasts, Kawasaki has officially launched the highly awaited ZX-6R in the Indian market. Priced competitively at Rs 11.09 lakh (ex-showroom), this sporty and high-performance motorcycle is poised to attract riders seeking a perfect combination of power and precision.
The Kawasaki ZX-6R, known for its aggressive design and cutting-edge technology, injects a new level of excitement into the Indian motorcycle landscape. With a robust 636cc engine, the bike promises a thrilling performance, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned riders and those venturing into the world of sports bikes.
The company has adopted an aggressive pricing strategy for the ZX-6R, aiming to make this powerhouse accessible to a broader audience. The motorcycle is equipped with advanced electronics, including multiple riding modes, traction control, and a quick-shifter, offering riders a customizable and exhilarating experience on both road and track.
ZX-6R Gallery
Expressing enthusiasm about the launch, a representative from Kawasaki India stated, “We are thrilled to introduce the ZX-6R to the Indian market. It has been a highly anticipated model, and we believe its aggressive styling and exceptional performance will resonate well with motorcycle enthusiasts in the country.”
Available in a range of vibrant colors, the ZX-6R adds a touch of style to its already impressive design. With this latest addition to Kawasaki’s lineup, the company aims to strengthen its presence in the premium sports bike segment in India.
KAWASAKI NINJA ZX-6R : HIGHLIGHTS
NEW Updated 636cc in-line four-cylinder DOHC engine
NEW Ninja® styling with new front cowling
NEW LED headlights and turn signals
NEW TFT full-colour instrumentation
NEW Smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP*
NEW Integrated riding modes
NEW Dual 310mm front discs with dual radial-mounted 4-piston monobloc calipers
NEW Pirelli Diablo Rosso™ IV tires
NEW sporty windshield
NEW 3D interwoven bodywork
Motorcycle enthusiasts are encouraged to visit Kawasaki dealerships across the country to witness the ZX-6R firsthand and experience the thrill it promises on the open road. The launch of the ZX-6R underscores Kawasaki’s commitment to delivering high-quality, performance-oriented motorcycles to the Indian market.
Trucks drivers are protesting a recent provision related to hit-and-run incidents, raising the specter of a potential strike that could significantly impact the supply chain.
The updated Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita has heightened the penalty for hit-and-run offenses, now carrying a maximum sentence of ten years. Drivers are expressing their dissatisfaction with this amendment, contending that it might be unduly harsh for truck drivers and discourage individuals from choosing truck driving as a livelihood.
Truck drivers
Throughout India are uniting against this new provision in the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita regarding hit-and-run cases. Previously, such cases were categorized under various sections of the IPC, carrying a two-year penalty. However, the revised Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita has amplified the punishment for hit-and-run offenses to a maximum of ten years. Drivers vehemently oppose this change, asserting that it could be overly punitive for drivers and dissuade people from pursuing truck driving as a career.
The protest poses a potential disruption to supply chains, particularly impacting the availability of petrol and diesel. Chetan Modi, President of the Bombay Petrol Dealers Association, cautioned that smaller dealers with credit limitations and no storage facilities may experience shortages if the strike persists. The Mumbai Petrol Association foresees a 50% impact on the city’s petrol and diesel supply.
Bal Malkhit Singh, Chairman of the core committee of the All India Motor Transport Congress, underscored the existing shortage of truck drivers in India, standing at 27%. He expressed concern that rules like these could exacerbate the challenge and appealed to drivers to maintain patience while urging the government to promptly address the issue.
The truckers’ association clarified that the strike wasn’t officially called by them; instead, drivers organized it independently through various social media platforms. As of now, protesting drivers state that the strike will continue until the 3rd of January.
A day following a powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake in Japan, the country has rescinded all tsunami warnings and advisories that were instated after a major quake on New Year’s Day.
As stated by an official from the meteorological agency to AFP on Tuesday. The substantial quake has resulted in the death of at least 48 people in Japan.
Minor fluctuations in tidal levels are still possible, the official mentioned, a day after tsunami waves over a meter high reached the coast.
“Profoundly Shocked”: ‘RRR’ Actor Jr NTR Returns from Japan After Earthquake Impact.
Japan Earthquakes: On Monday, the quakes, with the largest one measuring a magnitude of 7.6, also initiated a fire and brought down buildings on the west coast of Japan’s main island, Honshu.
Back home today from Japan and deeply shocked by the earthquakes hitting. Spent the entire last week there, and my heart goes out to everyone affected. Grateful for the resilience of the people and hoping for a swift recovery. Stay strong, Japan 🇯🇵
Jr NTR, the actor from “RRR,” revealed on Tuesday morning that he has returned from Japan and extended his wishes for the rapid recovery of the island nation following a series of potent earthquakes.
The quakes struck the western region of Japan, claiming a minimum of eight lives and causing damage to structures, vehicles, and boats. Authorities have advised residents in certain areas on Tuesday to refrain from returning to their homes due to the potential risk of additional powerful quakes.
“RRR,” a period action drama that also stars Ram Charan, achieved the status of the highest-grossing Indian film upon its 2022 release in Japan. The SS Rajamouli-directed film surpassed 410 million yen (approximately Rs 24.13 crore) at the Japanese box office.
Roads Split Open, Swallow Cars As Massive Quake Hits Japan.
A minimum of 30 people have died, and there are concerns about numerous individuals being trapped under debris after a powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck Japan on New Year’s Day. The significant quake was followed by over 150 consecutive tremors within the next 24 hours, compounding the trail of destruction.
Footage filmed by local residents showcased collapsed houses, fissured roads, and frightened inhabitants rushing for cover as the earthquake rattled buildings and trains.
One such video, shared by a resident driving around his neighborhood after the quake hit Ishikawa, the most severely impacted region, revealed sidewalks torn open from below, with cars parked outside houses now submerged in the crevices. Continuing forward, the video reveals collapsed houses, prompting concerned residents to emerge from the debris.
Japan Earthquake: 30 Dead, Numerous Trapped Under Debris
Japanese rescuers are engaged in a race against time, contending with powerful aftershocks on Tuesday, as they strive to locate survivors of a substantial earthquake that struck on New Year’s Day. The earthquake, claiming the lives of at least 30 individuals and leaving widespread devastation in its wake, has intensified the urgency of rescue efforts.
Japan Earthquake News: Locals Describe the Devastating Quake as “What a Terrible Start”!
“It was an incredibly powerful shake,” said Tsugumasa Mihara, 73, while waiting in line for water in the town of Shika. Expressing his dismay to AFP, he commented, “What a terrible way to start the year.” An elderly man recounted to NHK, “There was shaking like I have never experienced before.
Inside my house, it was so terrible… I am still alive. Maybe I have to be content with that.” These personal narratives convey the profound impact of the earthquake, depicting the intense shaking and the challenging aftermath experienced by individuals in the affected areas.
On Monday afternoon, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.6 struck near the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, marking Japan’s first major tsunami warning since the tragic events of the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami, which left around 18,500 people declared dead or missing in the northeast.
Addressing the situation on Tuesday, Prime Minister Kishida confirmed “extensive damage,” including collapsed buildings and triggered fires, emphasizing the severity of the impact caused by the earthquake.
“The search and rescue operations for those impacted by the earthquake are a race against time,” affirmed the prime minister. Furthermore, Kishida highlighted the substantial difficulties faced by rescuers in accessing the northern tip of the Noto Peninsula, where helicopter surveys uncovered multiple fires and widespread damage to buildings and infrastructure.
According to a subsequent statement from a government spokesperson, around 120 cases involve individuals awaiting rescue.
Tsunami Alerts Issued Following Significant Earthquake in Japan
At 4:10 p.m. local time on Monday, a potent earthquake hit the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, prompting tsunami warnings along Japan’s western coast. The warnings were subsequently lifted shortly after 1 a.m. on Tuesday.
As of Tuesday, 45,700 households in Ishikawa remained without power, as reported by the power company Hokuriku Electric Power.
Following the earthquake, Japan’s Kansai Electric and Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi confirmed that no abnormalities were reported at nuclear plants near the affected areas.
Four bullet trains, which were halted during the quake, trapping nearly 1,400 passengers for about 11 hours, resumed services on Tuesday morning, according to NHK, citing Japan Railways West. The high-speed trains had been stranded between the central cities of Toyama and Kanazawa after the 7.5 magnitude tremor.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation in the last episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ for the year, marking the beginning of an intense election year.
The Prime Minister’s significant citizen engagement radio program achieved its 108th episode today.
The Prime Minister posted on X (formerly Twitter) that he will discuss the government’s Fit India movement in his upcoming address. He invited people to express their opinions through the NAMO app. The address is also anticipated to touch upon recent assembly elections in five states, the approaching new year, and the recently passed three criminal code Bills.
During the 107th episode on November 26, PM Modi paid homage to those who lost their lives in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack. He also extended wishes to the nation on Constitution Day and encouraged people to support the Vocal for Local initiative by choosing domestic partners for marriage.
Mann Ki Baat: PM acknowledges India’s two Oscars victories; ‘Who wasn’t delighted?’
During the last Mann Ki Baat address for 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored India’s double triumph at this year’s Oscars, commending the song “Naatu Naatu” from “RRR” and the documentary short “The Elephant Whisperers.”
In the 108th episode of the radio broadcast, the Prime Minister emphasized how the world witnessed India’s creativity and gained insights into the country’s environmental connections through its entertainment industry.
Mann Ki Baat: In light of the Ram Temple inauguration, PM Modi encourages a #RamBhajan campaign.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his gratitude for the overwhelming response leading up to the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
He recognized the influx of poems, prose, and various creative expressions commemorating the consecration of Lord Ram, set to take place on January 22. The Prime Minister urged citizens to unite all the artistic contributions related to the Ram Temple inauguration under a #RamBhajan social media initiative.
Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi discusses the significance of AI tools.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the role of cutting-edge technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in bringing convenience to different facets of society. He recounted the Kashi-Tamil Sangmam event, highlighting the effectiveness of the indigenous AI-powered Bhashini app in seamlessly translating his Hindi speech into Tamil. He expressed the belief that such technology, once implemented, would enhance efficiency in various sectors, including the judiciary and education.
“I encourage the youth to explore AI tools dedicated to real-time translation and strive to make them entirely foolproof,” he urged.
Mann Ki Baat: PM reflects on India’s accomplishments in sports.
This year, our athletes have displayed remarkable achievements in sports. They clinched 107 medals in the Asian Games and 111 medals in the Asian Para Games. The Indian cricket team, with their impressive performance, won the admiration of fans during the Cricket World Cup. Looking forward, the Paris Olympics are set for 2024, and the entire nation is providing unwavering support and encouragement to our athletes, stated PM Modi.
Mann Ki Baat: PM shares how he still receives messages of congratulations on the success of ISRO’s Chandrayaan.
Even now, I receive messages congratulating me for the success of Chandrayaan-3. I’m certain, like me, you also feel proud of our scientists, particularly our women scientists, stated PM Modi.
Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi talks about the significance of mental health.
Acknowledging the nation’s enthusiastic participation in the Fit India movement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the importance of mental well-being in addition to physical fitness.
Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand, discussing his fitness routine, emphasized the necessity of getting seven to eight hours of sleep for maintaining composure and mental fitness throughout the day. Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar stressed the importance of following a balanced diet for physical health and advised against relying on chemicals and artificially induced methods for physical improvement, advocating instead for natural approaches.
Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi starts his address, discussing the importance of the number 108.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his last Mann Ki Baat address of 2023, shedding light on the significance of the digit 108 in the 108th episode of the radio show.
“In our society, the number 108 carries special importance, and this is the 108th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat,‘” he mentioned.
Mann Ki Baat: Intriguing Facts About the Prime Minister’s Flagship Radio Show You Need to Know.
Commencing on Vijayadashami on October 3, 2014, Mann Ki Baat garnered over 61,000 ideas within its first 15 episodes. To mark its 100th episode on April 30, the show was broadcast globally. The Indian Institute of Management, Rohtak, reported that at least 230 million individuals have either listened to or viewed the radio show, with over a billion people tuning in at least once.
According to a survey by All India Radio, the states with the highest number of listeners are Gujarat, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. The show has featured esteemed hosts, including then-US President Barack Obama and the late singer Lata Mangeshkar, among others.
In the 2019 word cloud survey conducted by HT, “India” and “nation” emerged as the most frequently used words in that year’s episodes. The show is broadcast in 22 Indian languages and 11 foreign languages.
Every four years, our calendar experiences a fascinating anomaly known as a leap year. The concept of adding an extra day to the calendar has been a part of our timekeeping system for centuries. This additional day, February 29th, ensures that our calendar year aligns more closely with the solar year.
Leap Year The Basics
A leap year consists of 366 days instead of the usual 365. The extra day is added to the month of February, extending it from 28 to 29 days. This adjustment compensates for the fact that it takes approximately 365.2422 days for the Earth to complete its orbit around the sun.
Leap Year Historical Context
The practice of adding a leap day can be traced back to the ancient Romans, who initially implemented the leap year in 45 BCE. However, the system wasn’t perfect, and it took centuries of refinements by astronomers like Julius Caesar and Pope Gregory XIII to develop the Gregorian calendar we use today.
Leap Year The Math Behind It
The leap year rule is simple: If a year is divisible by 4, it is a leap year. However, if the year is divisible by 100 but not by 400, it is not a leap year. This adjustment keeps our calendar in sync with the astronomical year length.
Leap YearFun Traditions and Facts:
People born on February 29th, often referred to as “leap day,” celebrate their birthdays once every four years.
The chance of being born on a leap day is approximately 1 in 1,461.
The leap year was introduced to ensure that the date of the spring equinox remains relatively constant over long periods.
Leap Year : Why We Need It
Without the occasional leap yhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leap_yearear adjustment, our calendar would slowly drift out of sync with the astronomical seasons. Over time, this misalignment could lead to our holidays and seasons occurring at entirely different times.
So, as we embrace the extra day in a leap year, let’s marvel at the clever ingenuity of our calendar system—a testament to our ability to measure time with precision and adapt it to the subtle nuances of our planet’s journey around the sun.
The Tata Group is a diverse multinational conglomerate with involvement in numerous brands, subsidiaries, and joint ventures. Here is an extensive list of companies associated with or partnered with the Tata Group:
List of Joint Ventures of Tata Portfolio of Dynamic Subsidiaries
Nettur Technical Training Foundation R D Tata Technical Education Centre Jamshedpur
Tata Ecotechnology Centre
Tata Institute of Fundamental Research
Tata Institute of Social Sciences
Tata Management Training Centre
Tata Memorial Hospital
Tata Medical Centre, Kolkata
The Energy and Resources Institute
Tata Institute for Genetics and Society
Apprentice Training School, Tata Chemicals Mithapur
Kohli Center for Intelligent Systems
Tata Portfolio of Dynamic Subsidiaries and diversified conglomerate, has consistently demonstrated a forward-looking approach to business expansion and fostering strategic collaborations through joint ventures. Over the years, Tata has embarked on numerous developments to diversify its business verticals and forge partnerships that enhance its global footprint.
Tata Group’s strategic developments and joint ventures underscore its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and meeting the evolving needs of a dynamic global market. By expanding into diverse business verticals and forming strategic partnerships, Tata continues to position itself as a leader in various industries, fostering growth and contributing to the economic development of the regions it operates in.
Leap years, occurring every four years, gift us an additional day in our calendars, and the year 2024 is poised to follow suit. In this exploration, we will delve into the significance, historical origins, and peculiar attributes of leap years, with a focus on the unique dynamics of the upcoming leap year.
Understanding Leap Years:
A leap year 2024 comprises 366 days instead of the usual 365, with an extra day inserted into the month of February. This adjustment is crucial to synchronize our calendar with the Earth’s revolutions around the sun. While most years are divisible by 4, not all such years are leap years. A year divisible by 100 is excluded, unless it is also divisible by 400. This refined rule ensures a more accurate alignment between the calendar year and the astronomical year.
Historical Significance:
he origins of leap years 2024 trace back to the ancient Roman calendar when Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar in 45 BCE, incorporating a leap year every four years. However, this system exhibited a slight overcompensation, resulting in a gradual misalignment with astronomical events.
In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII addressed these issues by introducing the Gregorian calendar, refining the leap year rule to rectify long-term discrepancies. This adjustment became the global standard, highlighting the ongoing evolution of our timekeeping systems.
Leap Year 2024 Facts and Figures:
Frequency of Leap Years:
An additional day is added to the calendar every four years, resulting in 25 leap years in a century.
Over the span of a century, there are 25 leap years 2024, given that a leap year 2024 occurs approximately every four years.
Calculation of Years:
A year divisible by 4 is a leap year, except for those divisible by 100 but not divisible by 400.
Applying this rule, a leap year, ensuring synchronization with the astronomical year.
Extra Day in February:
February, typically with 28 days, gains an extra day in a leap year, becoming 29 days long.
This additional day is a global phenomenon, observed in calendars worldwide.
Importance in Astronomy:
Leap years help align the calendar year with the Earth’s orbit around the sun, compensating for the roughly 365.25 days it takes for the Earth to complete its orbit.
Calendar Uniformity:
The Gregorian calendar ensures a high degree of accuracy in tracking astronomical events, minimizing the drift between the calendar year and the solar year.
Cultural and Folklore Significance:
Various cultures associate leap years with unique traditions and superstitions.
Leap day, falling on February 29, is considered special, with folklore suggesting it as a day for unconventional proposals.
2024 Olympic Games:
The leap year of 2024 coincides with the Summer Olympic Games, adding an extra layer of excitement and global significance to the year.
Statistical Impact:
In a leap year, the distribution of days across the months is slightly altered, with February becoming the longest month.
This adjustment has implications for businesses, financial institutions, and various industries relying on precise timekeeping.
Mathematical Patterns:
Leap years exhibit interesting mathematical patterns and divisibility rules, making them a captivating subject for mathematicians and enthusiasts alike.
Olympic Games Connection:
The occurrence of years occasionally aligns with major global events, such as the Olympic Games, adding an extra layer of significance to those years.
Conclusion
Leap years, with their extra day, add a touch of uniqueness to our calendars, ensuring our timekeeping systems stay in harmony with astronomical realities. The leap year of 2024, following the established rules of the Gregorian calendar, is a testament to ongoing efforts to maintain accuracy in measuring time. As we experience this rare phenomenon, let’s appreciate the intricate balance between human ingenuity and the natural rhythms of our planet. Whether it’s an extra day for reflection, celebration, or simply going about our daily lives, the leap year of 2024 invites us to explore the intersection of time, science, and cultural traditions.
